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Dishwashers are a long-term investment—many homeowners use the same unit for a decade or more. It is therefore especially important to consider both the upfront cost of the unit and the potential for long-term energy and water savings. Much like clothes washers, the large majority of energy used in the dishwasher is used to heat the water, with the rest used for heat drying. Selecting an efficient model and using it intelligently are both excellent ways to reduce your home’s utility bills.
Product Types
How It Works
Energy efficiency models use a host of new technologies to save energy and water. One of the most interesting features is the temperature booster, which elevates the temperature of the incoming water to allow the home’s hot water heater to be kept at a lower temperature. This built-in feature combines with other features—including an energy efficient motor, wash-time sensors, and air-dry settings—to provide greatly improved water and energy efficiency when compared to conventional models.
Low Cost Savings Tips:
- Make a concerted effort to only wash full loads. Choosing an appropriately-sized model for your usage patterns makes this easier!
- Use short cycles for everything except for the dirtiest dishes—they use less energy and will work just as well for normal washing.
- It’s generally not necessary to rinse dishes before putting them in the dishwasher. Scraping will do the trick unless food is burnt- or dried-on.
- The “rinse hold” function uses 3 to 7 gallons of hot water each time you use it.
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- Energy efficient models can use up to 40% less energy than federally mandated and a third less water than traditional models
- Dishwashers that offer an air-drying option will use considerably less energy when compared to those with only a heat-dry setting.
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Appliances 
